Olympic Golf Takes on Strong NWAC and NCAA Field in Kennewick

The Olympic College golf team opened its spring season at the Columbia Basin College Invitational in Kennewick, Washington, competing against one of the most competitive and diverse fields the program will face this year. The tournament featured a strong mix of Northwest Athletic Conference programs and NCAA colleges and universities, providing a challenging early‑season test for the Rangers.

April 7, 2026

The Olympic College golf team opened its spring season at the Columbia Basin College Invitational in Kennewick, Washington, competing against one of the most competitive and diverse fields the program will face this year. The tournament featured a strong mix of Northwest Athletic Conference programs and NCAA colleges and universities, providing a challenging early‑season test for the Rangers.

Olympic sent 11 golfers to the event, with nine men and two women representing the Rangers across three rounds of competition. For many, the tournament marked their first competitive action of the spring and served as an important benchmark against regional and national opponents.

On the men's side, Colin Whitehead led Olympic with a tie for 28th overall finish, posting a three‑round total of 245. Whitehead showed consistency throughout the event, closing with rounds of 80 and 80 after an opening 85. Alex Moore followed closely, tying for 32nd at 247, highlighted by a steady final round of 80. Raymond Jennings and KJ Bentz also finished strong, tying for 46th at 254, each gaining valuable experience against a deep field.

Additional Ranger performances included Matix Thorne, who finished tied for 52nd at 256, while Ethan Crowley completed the event in 70th. Olympic also had several individuals compete independently, including Kaiden Scott, Dylan Williams, and James Dyer, each gaining meaningful tournament experience against NCAA and NWAC competition.

On the women's side, Olympic was represented by Kiyomi McKinzie and Samantha Hooker, both competing as individuals in a large and competitive field. McKinzie completed all three rounds and finished 42nd overall with a score of 352, gaining valuable competitive reps to open the spring season. Hooker competed in the opening rounds of the tournament, continuing to build experience in her return to competition.

In the men's team competition, Olympic College finished ninth overall in a strong 11‑team field, posting a three‑round total of +132. The Rangers were tested by a deep lineup of NWAC and NCAA programs, with Bellevue College taking the team title at +56, followed by the Colleges of Spokane and Corban University. Olympic's team score reflected steady improvement across rounds and valuable experience against top regional competition, serving as an early benchmark as the Rangers continue to build toward conference play later in the spring.

The Columbia Basin Invitational provided a strong early challenge for Olympic's women, with the field featuring athletes from Bellevue College, Carroll College, Montana Tech, Colleges of Spokane, Southwestern Oregon, and other regional programs. Competing alongside that level of talent offered important exposure and development opportunities as the Rangers continue to grow their women's program.

Opening the spring season in Kennewick gave Olympic College a clear snapshot of where the program stands and where gains can be made. With the first tournament now complete, the Rangers look ahead to the remainder of the spring schedule focused on improving consistency, refining course management, and building momentum as conference play approaches. Next up: League Match, hosted by Southwest Oregon Community College at Bandon Crossings GC on April 19 and 20.